The oxymoron "silent scream" in the paragraph captures the deep internal conflict and frustration experienced by the narrator. This phrase suggests that while the narrator is overwhelmed with emotional pain and disappointment after not receiving the desired role in the school play, they feel compelled to suppress that expression of distress in front of their parents. The combination of "silent" and "scream" conveys the idea that even though the narrator is feeling intense emotions, the environment is not conducive to sharing those feelings openly. Instead of verbalizing their grief and seeking comfort, they resort to a metaphorical scream that remains unheard, illustrating the isolation and struggle they face in processing their disappointment.
The role of the oxymoron is to emphasize the dichotomy between the external silence and internal turmoil. The narrator’s decision to avoid a conversation with their parents highlights a sense of frustration—not only with the situation regarding the play but also with the lack of understanding they anticipate from their family. This inner conflict is reflected in the act of letting out a "silent scream," which reveals the depth of their feelings while reinforcing their sense of solitude. By employing this oxymoron, the author effectively encapsulates the complex feelings of grief and frustration that go unarticulated, allowing readers to empathize with the narrator's experience of feeling unheard and unsupported.